What to buy?

I am in the process of deciding what type of kite to buy and size as this is going to be my first gear set up. I’m 6’3” 190lbs and will be doing a fair bit of kiting on Nicola Lake which I’m told can be gusty. I also intend on hitting Squamish whenever possible. Can someone recommend any kites that would be suitable for me? And perhaps what size of board.

[quote author=“nitrogen”]I am in the process of deciding what type of kite to buy and size as this is going to be my first gear set up. I’m 6’3” 190lbs and will be doing a fair bit of kiting on Nicola Lake which I’m told can be gusty. I also intend on hitting Squamish whenever possible. Can someone recommend any kites that would be suitable for me? And perhaps what size of board.

Cheers

I think the 14m might be a little big for you for Nicola and Squamish. I have kited Nicola and it can crank upto (and above) 30 knots in the gusts. I am the same weight as you and I kite on a 12m One. Range is about 14 to 30knots, slightly lower with a large board. I am on a 134. The One is not a great kite to learn on though as it requires rider input to get the most out of it. If you are just learning maybe look at a 12 to 14 meter Rise.

Good point. I think the 12M rise may be a better starting point. However keep in mind it is not marketed as having the range of the ‘ONE’ on the fly http//www.oceanrodeo.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=181 BUT as pointed out above it will require less kiter input/skill as suits a ‘newbie’.

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If I was to start over I would get a 150ish board, an old style zen board. A new style 14M one and a 9 meter One. THe 9M is the sweetest kite I have ever flown. The 14 would be good for the light wind. Compared to the 9 the 12 is not a quick maneuvering kite bit of a pig. This selection would give you a 10 knot to 30 Knot range.

I gave my 14m one to a 180 lb friend yesterday to try out and he came scampering back in for his 12m one after 5 minutes (granted a solid gust came through, which is normal for Okanagan lake and Nicola is stronger) He just said woa that things got power which I know because I had just scampered back in for my regular 9m one. So I agree go 12 one or rise and enjoy yourself.